In a clear signal of Taiwan’s commitment to modernizing its military, President Lai Ching‑te visited the southern training grounds on September 18 to observe the island’s first joint combat drill that incorporated multiple types of attack drones. The three‑day exercise, held in the far south of the island, also featured launches of domestically produced Hsiung Feng III anti‑ship missiles and U.S.‑made HIMARS rockets.
Why the drill matters
President Lai told officers that the coordinated use of unmanned vehicles with conventional weapons demonstrates Taiwan’s adaptation to modern warfare. He emphasized that precision‑firing drills are essential for testing weapon effectiveness and ensuring the armed forces have the confidence and capability to defend national sovereignty and contribute to regional peace and stability.
The drill marks the first time Taiwan’s military has integrated several attack‑drone platforms into a single joint exercise. While the presidential office did not disclose the specific drone models used, images released showed the missiles and rockets being fired, highlighting the breadth of the training.
Strategic context
Defense modernization has become a cornerstone of Lai’s agenda, driven by the growing threat from China. The president has repeatedly called for increased defense spending, a stance echoed by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has urged allies worldwide to bolster their own military capabilities.
Unmanned aerial systems, often low‑cost yet highly effective, have taken center stage in recent conflicts—from Ukraine’s fight against Russia to ongoing operations in the Middle East. Taiwan is keen to learn from these experiences, incorporating lessons into its contingency planning and force structure.
Coast Guard integration
Accompanying President Lai were Defence Minister Wellington Koo and senior security officials, as well as Kuan Bi‑ling, head of Taiwan’s Ocean Affairs Council, which oversees the Coast Guard. The administration is working to better integrate the Coast Guard into overall defense planning, recognizing its potential auxiliary role to the navy in wartime. During Taiwan’s main annual war games in August, a Coast Guard vessel was equipped with anti‑ship missiles, underscoring this integration effort.
Political implications
Lai’s government continues to reject Beijing’s sovereignty claims, asserting that only the people of Taiwan can decide their future. By showcasing advanced drone capabilities and joint operations with conventional weapons, the administration aims to send a clear message of deterrence and readiness to both domestic audiences and international partners.
Analysts note that the drill reflects a broader trend among U.S. allies in the Indo‑Pacific to invest in asymmetric capabilities, such as drones and precision‑strike systems, that can offset larger conventional forces. Taiwan’s focus on indigenous missile development and the procurement of proven U.S. platforms like HIMARS signals a balanced approach to self‑reliance and strategic partnership.
As the island continues to face mounting pressure from China, the successful execution of this multi‑drone drill provides a tangible example of how Taiwan is adapting its defense posture to meet the challenges of modern warfare.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
